What is the primary purpose of tension in drama?

The primary purpose of tension in drama is to create emotional connections. Tension is a critical element that drives the narrative forward and keeps the audience engaged with the characters and their conflicts. By building tension, the drama evokes a range of emotions—such as anticipation, fear, excitement, or empathy—which helps audiences invest in the characters' journeys. This emotional connection is essential for effective storytelling, as it allows viewers to feel the stakes of the characters' situations and become immersed in the unfolding drama.

While tension can contribute to maintaining interest and preventing the drama from becoming boring, its deeper impact is rooted in fostering those emotional ties between the audience and the story. This connection is what ultimately makes the experience of watching a performance compelling and memorable.